Dedicated community members to be thanked during National Volunteers Week

Ararat Rural City Council is calling for nominations for outstanding volunteers and organisations, who will be celebrated at an event during Volunteers Week 2019 later this month.

Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the Council holds the volunteer celebration every year as a way of thanking the dedicated community members who give so much of their time to help others and support important programs.

“This is a great opportunity to thank and show our gratitude to our local volunteers, who are the life-blood of our communities,” he said.

“Without volunteers, there are many services and programs that simply could not operate. From working in op shops to guiding visitors at art galleries, helping out with sports clubs and donating their time in nursing homes and hospitals, our volunteers are a vital part of our community and are people who deserve much recognition.”

Volunteering Australia holds Volunteer Week in May every year, encouraging the community to thank those who “make a world of difference”.

Dr Harrison said the Council’s celebration would be held on Monday May 20, when individuals and organisations would also be recognised for their special contributions in four categories: outstanding individual, outstanding community group, outstanding youth volunteer and outstanding event.

To nominate a person or group, you can obtain a nomination form from the Council’s website by clicking here, or pick one up from the office at 59 Vincent Street. Nominations close May 15.

The celebration event will be held on Monday May 20 from 6pm-7.30pm at the Alexandra Oval Community Centre, 1 Waratah Avenue, Ararat. A light supper will be provided – please RSVP with the names of those attending by May 16 to [email protected].